Hydration is Critical in Labor.

The following recipe has been shared by a fellow colleague of mine Dr. Tanya Smith of Lifecycles Wellness.

It has been shown that adequate hydration is necessary for optimal muscle performance during prolonged exercise. (Our blessed uterus is just one big muscle). Studies demonstrate that increasing the amount of fluid taken during active labor results in a lower incidence of prolonged labor and possibly less need for interventions. These findings suggest that inadequate hydration during labor may contribute to dysfunctional labor.

Gatorade is often suggested for birthing women as it also helps replace electrolytes. For clients who would rather not have the additives, white sugar and colorants in Gatorade, I offer up the Labor-Aide recipe.


LABOUR-AIDE RECIPE

1/3 cup lemon juice

1/3 cup honey

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1 crushed 350mg calcium magnesium tablet (or ½ tsp liquid calcium)

6 cups of water

Mix together well. Try freezing some as ice cubes or popsicles. Put the remainder in easy to drink from containers. Empty water bottles work well.